Where Pros Meet Players (From August 4)

I have now seen the differences between the Independent Leagues and affiliated ball, and I can say that the Independents do it way better. I love MLB and everything, but the business guys acts a lot more invested in their product.

Ryan Gates, the General Manager of the Lake Erie Crushers in the Frontier League, has been advancing his career for a decade, most recently coming from West Virginia. But in the Independent League, he stays in check with the players and coaches, along with balancing out what happens in the stadium. Seeing him milling among the crowd at the game against the Kalamazoo Kings convinced me that he is willing to be involved in all aspects of the business side of baseball.

Nothing against Rob Marron, the GM of the Single-A Lake County Captains, but the job in the affiliated game is a lot less involved. Marron, the GM and Vice President of Player Development focuses on “everything in foul territory.” They do not really pay too much attention on the players themselves, and couldn’t really tell about what happens in the clubhouse. The upside is that he can focus on crafty promotions and events for the team, a skill that has landed him regards across the country for his efforts.

The experience leaves me wanting to see more Independent League baseball in the future. It is like a college game with advertisements and in-game fun that attracts baseball fanatics and baseball families alike.